Jaishankar meets PM Netanyahu. Image courtesy: @DrSJaishankar/X
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, holding wide-ranging discussions on regional stability and global challenges. The meeting marked another step in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Israel.
Jaishankar conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed confidence in the future of bilateral ties. He described the interaction as productive and forward-looking.
Focus on cooperation across key sectors
During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding cooperation in technology, economic growth, skills development, talent mobility, connectivity, and security. These areas have become central pillars of the India–Israel relationship.
In a message shared on social media platform X, Jaishankar said he deeply appreciated the meeting with Netanyahu. He noted that the strategic partnership between the two countries continues to grow stronger with time.
The talks reflected a shared intent to deepen engagement in sectors that directly support innovation, national security, and economic resilience.
Series of high-level engagements in Israel
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar met Israeli President Isaac Herzog. He also held separate discussions with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat.
These engagements underscored the breadth of India’s diplomatic outreach during the visit. Officials focused on both political coordination and economic collaboration.
The meetings highlighted the importance both nations place on sustained dialogue at multiple levels of government.
Condemnation of Bondi Beach terror attack
During his discussions, Jaishankar strongly condemned the recent antisemitic terror attack in Australia’s Bondi Beach. The shooting targeted members of the Jewish community during Hanukkah celebrations.
Speaking alongside Foreign Minister Sa’ar, Jaishankar offered condolences for the loss of life. He described the attack as an act of terrorism and condemned it in the strongest terms.
He said India stands firmly with Israel and the global Jewish community against such violence.
Shared stand against terrorism
Jaishankar emphasised that India and Israel share a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. He thanked Israel for its consistent support of India’s efforts to combat terrorism in all forms.
According to him, the two nations have long cooperated closely on counterterrorism and security matters. This cooperation remains a cornerstone of their strategic relationship.
He noted that both countries understand the threat posed by extremist violence and the need for firm responses.
Strategic partnership built over a decade
Jaishankar described India–Israel ties as a strategic partnership that has developed significantly over the past ten years. He said the relationship now spans government-to-government, business-to-business, and people-to-people engagement.
He added that the partnership touches a wide range of domains, reflecting growing trust and mutual benefit. From defence and innovation to agriculture and digital technology, cooperation has steadily expanded.
Jaishankar said India and Israel are highly complementary partners. He stressed the need to fully utilise this complementarity to achieve shared goals.
Support for peace and stability in Gaza
During his visit, Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for the Gaza peace plan. He expressed hope that ongoing efforts would lead to a lasting and durable solution.
He emphasised the importance of dialogue and stability in the region. India, he said, remains committed to peace and humanitarian considerations.
The visit highlighted India’s balanced approach in the region, combining strong bilateral ties with Israel and support for broader peace initiatives.
Jaishankar’s meetings in Jerusalem reinforced India’s intent to deepen its partnership with Israel while addressing shared global and regional concerns.
With input from agencies.
